Thousands of fans lined Broad Street in Birmingham on Wednesday afternoon to pay their final respects to heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne, whose public farewell culminated in a private funeral ceremony later in the day.
The emotional procession, which began at 1pm, saw the Black Sabbath frontman’s hearse travel through the city centre accompanied by family members and a performance by local brass ensemble, Bostin Brass. The cortege paused at the Black Sabbath Bridge and commemorative bench—a now-iconic landmark where mourners have gathered since Osbourne’s death last week at the age of 76.
Among those present were Ozzy’s wife, Sharon Osbourne, who was visibly moved by the scenes, and their children, Jack and Kelly. The family laid floral tributes alongside those of fans, many of whom had travelled from across the country to honour one of Birmingham’s most celebrated sons.
Sharon and the family took a quiet moment at the site, surrounded by messages, flowers, and mementos left by grieving admirers.
The city council confirmed it had worked “at pace” with the Osbourne family to organise the public tribute, ensuring both safety and dignity were preserved ahead of the private ceremony that followed.
The turnout on Broad Street served as a powerful reminder of Osbourne’s influence—not only as a pioneering figure in rock music but as a cultural icon rooted in the very heart of Birmingham.
